Casualties unknown

Takeoff Incident on Rough Sod Strip with High Density Altitude (N9726S)

Bridgeport, NE, US

On August 31, 1984, a Beech BE 58 (registration N9726S) was involved in an aviation accident near Bridgeport, NE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff from a rough 2800-ft sod strip in light wind and known high density altitude, the aircraft became airborne below minimum steady flight control speed, resulting in a right wing drop. The pilot attempted to re-land but touched down in a skid, causing the landing gear to collapse from side loads and rough terrain.

Overview

A pilot initiated a takeoff from a rough, 2800-foot sod strip under light wind conditions and a known high density altitude situation.

Sequence of Events

During the takeoff roll, slight back yoke pressure was used to moderate the effect of the rough surface on the nose gear. Additional back pressure was applied, causing the aircraft to become airborne below the minimum steady flight control speed. Subsequently, the right wing dropped. The pilot lowered the nose to re-land the aircraft, but the aircraft touched down in a skid. The landing gear collapsed due to side loads and rough terrain.

Damage

The landing gear collapsed as a result of the side loads encountered during the skidded touchdown and the rough terrain.

Conditions

The takeoff was conducted from a rough, 2800-foot sod strip. Wind conditions were light, and the pilot was aware of high density altitude conditions prior to the takeoff.

All Beechcraft Baron 58 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Aug 1984 Beech BE 58 accident near Bridgeport, NE?

During takeoff from a rough 2800-ft sod strip in light wind and known high density altitude, the aircraft became airborne below minimum steady flight control speed, resulting in a right wing drop. The pilot attempted to re-land but touched down in a skid, causing the landing gear to collapse from side loads and rough…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Aug 1984 involved a Beech BE 58, registration N9726S, at Bridgeport, NE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40845. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.